B-25 Mitchell crash near Wonsan during bombing mission

3 fatalities • Wonsan, North Korea • Flight

A twin-engine aircraft crashed into the sea east of Wonsan on May 4 after striking an obstacle during a low-altitude bombing run.

What happened

On the evening of May 4, a B-25 Mitchell departed from Daegu to conduct a bombing mission targeting Wonsan. During the operation, the aircraft was flying at a low altitude over the city when it struck an unidentified obstacle. This impact resulted in significant damage to one of the propellers.

Following the strike, the pilot attempted to maneuver the aircraft away from the target zone. However, the plane became uncontrollable and subsequently plunged into the sea approximately 3 km east of Wonsan. The accident resulted in three fatalities and one survivor among the crew members.

Probable cause

The aircraft struck an obstacle during a low-altitude bombing mission, leading to propeller damage and loss of control.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1951-05-05 Douglas A-26 Invader accident near Wonsan, North Korea?

A twin-engine aircraft crashed into the sea east of Wonsan on May 4 after striking an obstacle during a low-altitude bombing run.

Were there any fatalities in the 1951-05-05 Douglas A-26 Invader accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 3 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1951-05-05 involved a Douglas A-26 Invader, registration 44-34405, operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947), at Wonsan, North Korea.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft struck an obstacle during a low-altitude bombing mission, leading to propeller damage and loss of control.

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